How to Lay a Black Limestone Patio

[Biggles]

Hi,
I posted the message below on the main forum a couple of weeks back. However I've had no replies. Over a hundred people have read the post, so there is clearly a lot of interest in this particular subject.

I then notice this part of the forum dealing with real stone, and thought I'd have a go here as well.

If anyone wishes to chip in their tuppence worth, that would be great.

Thanks all

Biggles (Doug)


"Hi there,

I'm new to the forum, and apologise if this question has already been asked.

I'm currently getting some building work done, and part of this will include the laying of a black limestone patio - approx 35m[SUP]2[/SUP]. I have researched a bit about the stone type, and have seen numerous horror stories about it staining, effervescence marks, etc. What I can't find is how it should be laid properly in the first place so these problems don't occur. Should it be sealed, should it be colour treated, should it be grouted before or after sealing, do you actually need to seal it, does this have to be repeated every year, should it be laid with a damp proof membrane underneath, should special cement / mortar mix be used, or a special grout etc, etc, etc.

I've just re-read what I've written, and I sound a bit paranoid, but in all honesty I just want it done properly in the first place.

Any helpful hints and tips would be greatly appreciated.

Many Thanks

Biggles (Doug)"

Read more: http://www.tilersforums.com/tiling-forum/61054-how-lay-black-limestone-patio.html#ixzz22TNTxy7g

 

[Rizzle from the Portizzle]

all of these questions should have been answered by the tile shop you bought the tiles from. without knowing which type of lime stone this is or how you intened to lay it its hard to give answers to your questions

 

[Ceramico tiling]

To be honest I would get 2 quotes from stone fixers/masons and just quiz them extensively on the job specifications concerning that particular stone.For my two pence..I would seal them before and after(multiple times) The only concern is the efflorescence you have heard about.I wonder if it comes through limestone that is fully saturated with sealer.If the efflorescence comes up from the screed/concrete below I would lay an exterior uncoupling membrane/ water barrier that should stop anything passing through. If its from the adhesive I would contact all the manufacturers and find the most efflorescence free one.

Good luck